The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) Peace and Reconciliation Committee has urged political actors in Rivers State to prioritize the people’s wishes, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and political stability.
At a closed-door meeting held on Wednesday in Port Harcourt, the committee focused on fostering unity between the state’s two major political factions—Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Minister Nyesom Wike.
Speaking after the meeting, Rivers Elders Forum Chair, Rufus George, expressed optimism about the reconciliation efforts, stating that significant progress had been made in resolving the political crisis.
He emphasized that peace was achievable if all parties respected the people’s mandate.
George also called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene, urging the federal government to facilitate a peaceful resolution.
Renowned Niger Delta activist, AnnKio Briggs, lauded PANDEF’s intervention, stressing that political stability in Rivers State was crucial not just for the region but for the entire country.
She urged the reconciliation committee to engage the presidency in ensuring Minister Wike’s cooperation toward a lasting solution.
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The PANDEF delegation was led by former Governor Victor Attah (Chairman) and included notable figures such as Senator Roland Owie, Senator Emmanuel Essien, Col. Pam Ogar, Senator Stella Omu, and Engr. Dagogo Jack.
Chief Rufus George led the Rivers Elders’ Forum, which had members like Admiral O. P. Fingesi, Sir Gabriel Toby, Senator Benneth Birabi, AnnKio Briggs, Senator Andrew Uchendu, and Anabs Sara-Igbe in attendance.
With tensions still simmering in the state’s political landscape, PANDEF’s latest efforts signal a renewed push for peace, unity, and respect for democratic principles.